The Legazpi City Council has initiated a project combining sustainable mountain management with the promotion of local livestock farming. Fifty goats from association members have been fitted with virtual fencing collars. These devices will allow the animals to graze in pre-defined areas without the need for physical fences.
Previously, the City Council invested significant resources in clearing mountain undergrowth. By grazing, the goats consume bushes and other vegetation, and this initiative aims to perform some of these tasks naturally, thereby reducing maintenance costs.
However, the project extends beyond maintenance tasks. Aligned with the Harrobi project's approach, it seeks to reconcile traditional mountain uses with nature conservation. Strengthening livestock activity can also contribute to the future of the local food system, given the role of farmers in food production.
Virtual fencing allows for more flexible organization of grazing areas and can help adapt livestock activity to the needs of each region. Thus, technological innovation becomes a tool to facilitate the daily work of livestock farmers.
The Legazpi City Council promotes and coordinates the project alongside livestock farmers and other entities. Goimen, a rural development association, provides technical advice to the farmers. MIK is working on the governance model and a market study, and the Gomiztegi cooperative also participates by monitoring animal welfare.
Project decisions will be made jointly by the participating entities. The Gipuzkoa Provincial Council has subsidized the initiative as part of the Food Mission.
